The Reed Smoot Hearings

Intersection of Faith, Politics, and Controversy in Early 20th-Century Mormonism

In a recent episode of “Heart of the Matter,” host Shawn McCraney delved into the complex history of Mormonism, focusing on the Reed Smoot case—a pivotal moment that exposed the intricate ties between the LDS Church and political power in early 20th-century America. The episode highlighted the tension between Mormon beliefs and American governance, particularly the controversial practice of polygamy and the church’s influence over its members’ political allegiances.

McCraney discussed the two prevailing attitudes among Christians regarding salvation: one based on personal righteousness and the other on faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasized the divergence between Mormonism, which combines faith with personal worthiness, and biblical Christianity, which relies solely on faith in Christ’s sacrifice.

The Reed Smoot hearings, which lasted three years, scrutinized whether church and state were intertwined in Utah and questioned the loyalty of LDS members to the U.S. government. The investigation revealed a culture of deception within the church, as leaders, including Smoot, were found to have misled the public about their adherence to federal laws against polygamy.

This episode underscored the ongoing struggle within Mormonism between adhering to its foundational practices and adapting to modern societal norms. As McCraney prepares to explore biblical passages often misinterpreted by the LDS Church, he invites viewers to join him in seeking a deeper understanding of faith and truth.